Kelmscott Colts took to the big oval at John Dunn in their first home game of the season against Rossmoyne on Saturday.
The visitors jumped out of the gates early, kicking four goals in the first quarter against the Bulldogs who only managed one.
The quarter time break didn’t give much reprieve for the Dogs as the Rossmoyne Rhinos charged ahead, kicking another five in the second quarter to Kelmscott’s second goal for the game.
Missed scoring opportunities at half-time meant that Kelmscott’s score of 2.5 (17) looked precarious against Rossmoyne’s 9.3 (57).
Undeterred, the Dogs lifted after the break and held the Rhinos scoreless while Kelmscott kicked four goals and six behinds.
The Bulldogs continued to claw back into the game. With just a 10-point lead going into the last quarter, Rossmoyne tried desperately to keep up with Kelmscott’s run, managing another three goals.
However, Kelmscott’s improved accuracy meant the Colts kicked five in the last, taking the victory by just two points at the final siren.
“If the boys play the rest of the season the way they finished today’s game off, look out,” Colts coach Ryan Prosser said.
“The heart the boys showed is just phenomenal. The pressure that was applied in the second half was great: big strong tackles; Dean Pankhurst unstoppable; the run from the backline, and accurate kicking across the ground was outstanding; Lawrence Hansen with three goals; Hayden Eades didn’t stop all day.
“The boys kicked some pressure goals in as well, with Lucas Eades’ sensational goal.
“All round fantastic effort from all the boys and we are looking forward to rest of the season. Some more players are on their way as well. Kelmscott Colts are looking good.”
Goals to Raymond Aston (2), and one each to Ben O’Shaughnessy, Malik Arnold, Seth Watkins, Malakai Isaacs and Ryan Bond.
Kelmscott Bulldogs 11.11 (77) defeated Rossmoyne Rhinos 12.3 (75).
Women
The Kelmscott women continued their good start to the season with a win, throwing them to the Top of the Ladder.
Canning Vale 1.6 (12) defeated by Kelmscott 7.9 (51)
Reserves
The Reserves put their hearts on the line with a short line up against Bayswater, improving their form until their legs ran out of steam in the second half.
Baywater Reserves 20.14 (134) beat Kelmscott Reserves 5.3 (33).
League
Rising from the Women’s and Colts’ wins, the Kelmscott League 11.12 (78) mauled into Bayswater League 5.2 (32) climbing to second spot on the premiership season board after Round 2.
This Saturday is a massive day at the kennel. Kelmscott Bulldogs will host four home games starting at 11am with Women v Mt Lawley, Reserves at 12:45pm, League at 2:40pm v Baldivis, and Integrated All Abilities play their first round against Wembley at 4:35pm.
The Colts will travel down to Warnbro for a 10am game.
Winter Multi-Sports ‘Come and Try’
The Bulldogs, Blind Sports WA and City of Armadale will co-host a ‘come and try’ day at the Armadale Arena this Saturday from 1-3pm.
Discover AFL, soccer, and goalball at the free and accessible event, with demos and skill-building opportunities.
All fitness levels and vision impairments are welcome.
After the sports session, participants can mingle at an afternoon tea and an info session on inclusive sports.
Participants should wear comfy clothes and bring a water bottle.
To register, visit https://events.humanitix.com/winter-multi-sports-free-come-and-try